Corporal Jeffrey Robert Standfest Post Office Building

Floor Speech

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Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, the House will vote on my bill to rename the Saint Clair Post Office after Marine Corporal Jeffrey Robert Standfest. Before we do, I want to tell you a little bit about the life of this brave young man.

Mr. Speaker, Corporal Standfest was described by those who knew him as respectful, family-oriented, dedicated, hardworking, and the all- American kid.

He was a runner at Saint Clair High School where he graduated in 2005. His success as a runner, along with his reputation as a leader, continued during his time at Oakland University. In 2008, wanting to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather who served our Nation during World War II, Jeff enlisted in the Marine Corps. He was deployed to Afghanistan as a combat engineer and a K9 handler. Tragically on June 16, Corporal Standfest and his canine, Sergeant Ruppert, were killed by an IED. He was only 23 years old.

Mr. Speaker, we must always remember that the rights and freedoms we as Americans hold dear are only secured through the courage and sacrifice of those who serve. Eleven years later, his memory, his courage, and his sacrifice are kept alive by his parents, Timothy and Karen, and his sister, Jaclyn, all of whom knew him and loved him.

Mr. Speaker, this bill could never heal the wounds of losing him, but passage of this bill will demonstrate to his loved ones that Congress and this country will never forget his bravery and ultimate sacrifice. Passage of this bill will ensure that the residents of Saint Clair will always be reminded about their high school star runner, the all- American kid who answered the call to serve and gave his life in defense of this great country.

Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. Mr. Speaker, I am prepared to close.

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